Apparatus for flow detection, measurement and control and method for use of same

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for use in a multi-purpose piping system that provides water to both domestic uses and to fire sprinklers, the apparatus comprising: piping having an inlet and an outlet; a detector, located between the inlet and outlet, that distinguishes between a fire sprinkler water flow and a domestic use water flow; and a drain connection located between the inlet and the outlet. A multipurpose piping system using the apparatus in a system incorporating at least one fire sprinkler, the piping system also supplying at least one other use in the structure.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 10/880,123, filedon Jun. 30, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,221,281, which is acontinuation-in-part of Ser. No. 10/118,207, filed on Apr. 9, 2002, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,914,531, which is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No.09/993,537 filed Nov. 6, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,741,179, which was acontinuation-in-part of Ser. No. 09/567,510 filed May 8, 2000, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,333,695, which was a continuation-in-part of Ser. No.09/483,999 filed Jan. 18, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,239,708, which was acontinuation-in-part of Ser. No. 09/908,976 filed Jun. 17, 1998, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,081,196 (hereinafter collectively referred to as the“Parent Applications”).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to the fields of flow detection, measurement andcontrol. The invention also relates to fire suppression systems, and, inparticular, to multi-purpose piping systems for fire protection instructures and flow elements related thereto.

Practically any system where fluid flows in a conduit can use flowmeasurement devices. There are any many different kinds of flowmeasurement devices as there are systems where fluids flow in a conduit(such as a typical round pipe). For example, it is well known that thereis a pressure drop across an orifice plate, and that this pressure dropcan be used to determine the fluid flow through the pipe. The pressuredrop is proportional to the velocity of the fluid in the pipe. Asanother example, a positive displacement device may be placed in aconduit, which directly measures the volume of fluid flowingtherethrough. From the known volume measured by the positivedisplacement device, the velocity of the fluid in the pipe can bedetermined. Each type of flow measurement device has its strengths andweaknesses, and may be applicable to one system, while not beingsuitable for another.

Check valves (single and double acting) are also widely used in systemswhere fluids flow in conduits. The purpose of a check valve is to allowflow in one desired direction, but prevent flow in the oppositeundesired direction. Existing check valves often use a moving seat,which is forced open by fluid flowing in the desired direction, butwhich moving seat is sealingly forced against an annular shoulder,preventing flow in the undesired, opposite direction.

It is well known to use electronic sensor means to transmit a signalgenerated by a flow measurement device to a read out or alarm means. Theelectronic output may be generated in response to a pressure transduceror the like. There are a myriad of ways to generate an electronic signalproportional to flow of a fluid in a conduit. As with our orifice platenoted above, the differential pressure is proportional to the flow inthe conduit. Therefore, a differential pressure transducer exposed tothe up stream and down stream fluids would produce an output electricalsignal proportional to the flow of fluid through the conduit. In onetype of paddle flow switch, the volume between the paddles is known, anda signal is generated indicating the number of revolutions per unit timeof the paddle, thus allowing calculation of the flow velocity. Vane-typepaddle flow switches are typically used in the fire protection industry,but vane-type paddle flow switches are generally not capable ofmeasuring flow with any degree of accuracy.

Gems® Sensors markets several types of flow switches in theircatalogues, which switches use Reed switch technology to measure flow.These devices are equipped with a magnet which is displaced by liquidflow to actuate a hermetically-sealed Reed switch isolated within theunit body of the switch. A positive spring-return de-actuates the switchwhen flow decreases. The pressure drop is low since the flow sensingelements moves out of the flow path after switch actuation. With onlyone moving part—the shuttle, paddle, or piston—Gems Sensors' flowswitches are alleged to be inherently reliable. There are no bellows,diaphragms, or mechanical linkages to wear or get out of adjustment.Gems Sensors' FS-200 incorporates a magnet-equipped shuttle, which isdisplaced by fluid flow, actuating the hermetically sealed Reed switch.Gems Sensors also provides options vane bypass, which can be opened toallow additional flow to pass through the sensor before the Reed switchis activated. This optional vane device is externally adjustable with ablade screwdriver, for simple adjustment of the amount of flow requiredto actuate the Reed switch. Gems Sensors' model FS-10798 incorporates apiston which provides an alternative flow path for fluid. In the mainflow path, there is a vane which can be adjusted to vary the amount offluid flow which is required to move the piston a sufficient distance toactivate the magnetic switch. The piston is equipped, of course, with amagnet, which activates an external Reed switch when it is displacedsufficiently. Therefore, there is no flow through the alternative pistonpath until it is displaced sufficiently to allow fluid to flow throughan outlet port in the cylinder wall in which the piston moves.

It is well known to provide a dual check back-flow preventor for use invarious types of systems. For example, Watts Industries, Inc., providesa Series 007 Double Check Valve Assembly. The Watts device has twomoving checks in series, which are displaced by flow in a desireddirection, but which positively seat to prevent flow in the undesireddirection. As the checks are displaced by flow in the proper direction,flow passes out around the periphery of the checks. The checks arecontained within a cage assembly, which allows passage of fluid betweenthe legs thereof.

It is well known to provide a bypass means for allowing fluid flowaround a restriction, in certain circumstances. For example, asdisclosed in the Parent Applications for use in a multi-purpose pipingsystem, it may be desirable to divert flow around a water softener wherethe demand for water in the residence for fire protection is greaterthan is able to flow through the water softener. As another example, ina chemical process, chemicals may be passed through a reactor unit.However, should the reactor become plugged or otherwise unduly restrictthe flow, it may be desirable to bypass the reactor so as to preventdamage to the reactor vessel and/or a process upset. In thesecircumstances, it is necessary to have a bypass means which can divertflow around the flow element causing the pressure drop.

In most fluid flow systems, each of the above noted flow elements (flowmeasurement, check valve, bypass means) is a separate fitting which mustbe placed in the fluid system. It is often desirable to combine as manyof the above noted functions into one device engineered for a particularpurpose. The benefits of a combination of multiple devices, for examplethe flow meter, check valve, and means for converting a fluid flow to anelectronic out put signal, are: a reduced number of devices reducescomplexity, cost, and difficulty of installation of a fluid flow system.

It is also well known to provide a means for enunciating an alarm whenwater flows through a fire protection system. Typical commercial fireprotection systems do not have significant water flow therethroughunless a sprinkler head is activated by a fire. Thus, the typicalcommercial system need only to detect whether or not flow is present,and if so, an alarm must be enunciated. That is why vane-type paddleflow switches are generally acceptable for commercial fire protectionsystems.

In U.S. Pat. No. 6,081,196, issued Jun. 27, 2000, for Apparatus AndMethod For Multipurpose Residential Water Flow Fire Alarm, a method wasdisclosed which allows the same piping to be used for both domestic andfire protection needs. The method provided for a flow detection andmeasurement means which is capable of distinguishing typical domesticflow from fire protection flow caused by the operation of one or moresprinkler heads. The ability to distinguish domestic flows from fireprotection was based on the different flow regimes between fireprotection and domestic uses.

The National Fire Protection Association (“NFPA”) has establishedstandards for the design and operation of multi-purpose residential firesprinkler systems. The standard is known as NFPA 13D, 1999 Ed. Itdefines a multi-purpose piping system (“MPS”) as “[a] piping systemwithin dwellings and manufactured homes intended to serve both domesticand fire protection needs.”

Typical commercial fire sprinkler systems utilize a water flow detectorto provide an alarm means. When a flow of sufficient, minimal, volume isdetected, typical commercial systems indicate an alarm condition. Theonly reason that water typically flows in commercial systems isactivation of a sprinkler head. Therefore, in a typical commercialsystem an alarm means need only determine whether or not water isflowing. Paddle flow switches are commonly used to determine when flowoccurs in commercial systems. These are typically vane-type paddle flowswitches.

In an MPS water regularly flows through the common piping. Flows occurto supply domestic needs within the structure. Whenever a sink, showeror toilet valve open, water flows in the MPS. Therefore, the alarmsystem used on typical commercial applications will not work for the MPSbecause simply taking a shower might cause a typical commercial flowdetector to alarm when used with the MPS.

In light of this problem, typical residential and commercialapplications have two completely different piping systems: (1) a firesprinkler piping system, and (2) a domestic piping system. This doublesthe number of pipes/fittings and the amount of plumbing work which hasto be performed in a typical residential application. The same set ofpiping could not previously be used for both systems because the flowalarm could send false signals when domestic water was turned on.Alternatively, a residential application could use a fire detectionsystem (i.e., smoke detector system). However, a smoke detection systemdoes not alarm when water flows. Therefore, with a smoke detectionsystem and no flow alarm, the fire sprinklers could run for days,causing extensive water damage, while the home owner is away on vacationand no alarm would sound. Also, smoke detection systems can beexpensive.

As noted above, U.S. Pat. No. 6,081,196, issued Jun. 27, 2000, to Young,disclosed an Apparatus And Method For Multipurpose Residential WaterFlow Fire Alarm. The apparatus for use as a multi-purpose residentialfire suppression water flow alarm system disclosed in that patent wascomprised of a supply side for delivering water under pressure; amulti-purpose piping system having a system side with common piping fordelivering water from the supply side to a fire suppression side withone or more sprinkler heads and a domestic side for one or more domesticuses; a detecting means for detecting fire protection flow and fordistinguishing that flow from a maximum domestic flow, the detectingmeans being disposed between the supply side and the system side; adrain test connection; and an alarm means. The method of utilizing theapparatus described above was also disclosed. One of the dependentclaims from the above-noted patent, claimed a detecting means comprisedof an orifice plate through which water flows causing a differentialpressure measured by a differential pressure switch so that the flowrate to the orifice plate is proportional to the differential pressureallowing a determination of flow rate based on the differential pressuremeasured.

The flow detection means could utilize any number of well known flowmeasurement technologies, such as U.S. Pat. No. 5,288,469 to Otten etal. The Otten device incorporates both an orifice plate and acone-shaped plug around which the water flows. U.S. Pat. No. 5,419,203to Carmichael discloses a device similar to the device disclosed byOtten. Otten utilizes the Hall effect to measure the displacement of adisplacement piston having a magnet incorporated therein. Carmichaelutilizes strain sensors to measure the strain caused by displacement ofa cone-shaped plug biased by a spring member. As the flow increases, thecone-shaped plug displaces backwardly in reaction to the flow puttinggreater pressure on the spring and consequently, greater pressure on thepressure sensors incorporated in the device. The Otten and Carmichaeldevices have several common features, namely a chamber having an orificeplate and a plug-shaped device adapted to be deflected away from theorifice plate in proportion to the flow rate through the chamber. Theflow measurement means must be simple in both operation and concept sothat it will be inexpensive to build and can be easily programed andcalibrated in the field. The problem with Otten and Carmichael is thattheir devices allow flow therethrough the instant pressure is appliedacross the orifice plate. As disclosed, they are not capable of servingas a bypass means for allowing flow only when the differential pressureexceeds some preset level.

Critics of the MPS have also noted that it is common for residentialsystems to incorporate a water softener or similar devices (such asfilters, chlorination systems, UV purifiers and the like). Watersofteners and similar devices can create substantial drops in systempressure and flow such that the water supply flowing through a typicalresidential system may not be sufficient for fire protection needs.Therefore, there is a need for a bypass mechanism which will allowsufficient flow in fire protection situations to bypass the watersoftener to supply the fire protection needs.

Prior art systems also suffered from problems with freezing. Where lineswere in locations that could reach temperatures below freezing, it was acommon problem to face freezing in the pipes, which could cracksprinkler heads and/or piping systems. Prior art systems addressed thisproblem in a number of ways, including dry pipe systems, which do nothave any water in the piping until fire is sensed, by placing pipes inlocations where they were not exposed to cold temperatures (for example,by placing insulation wrap over piping systems in favor of heated spacedbelow) and the like.

The NFPA allowed the MPS because, in their estimation, the cost savingsassociated with single systems instead of duplicate systems, would causethe MPS to be installed in more homes, thus saving more lives. However,the NFPA provides no means for alarming upon a water flow condition inthe MPS, which is a system where both domestic and fire protectionsystems use common piping.

There was previously no flow detection means for use with an MPS. Asnoted above, typical flow detection means alarm upon detection of aminimum flow. Therefore, given the common piping system in an MPS,typical domestic uses could cause the prior art flow detection means tosend an alarm signal to the alarm means. NFPA provided for installationof a non-water-flow-based smoke detection and alarm system for use withthe MPS. These non-water-flow-based smoke detection and alarm systemsare expensive, and they are not capable of detecting flow through one ormore fire protection sprinklers. The inability of a smoke detectionsystem to detect and enunciate a water flow alarm could result inextensive water damage to the property.

A cousin to the multi-purpose system for use generally in commercialapplications was the “Tri-Water Systems™” that were sold by American AirFilter starting in the early 1980's. The Tri-Water System allowed forcost savings, but there was one serious flaw; namely, there was no wayto provide a water alarm for the sprinkler system. Thus, the Tri-WaterSystem was a failure. The documentation provided by American Air Filterfor the Tri-Water System alleged that:

-   -   The purpose of the flow switch is to trigger an alarm when the        sprinkler is activated. the flow switch manufacturers provide        detailed instructions for trimming the paddles and adjusting        switch spring tension. If paddles are not trimmed for actual        flow conditions, nuisance alarms will be sounded; unnecessarily        evacuating the building and “rolling” the fire department.        Instructions provided by American Air Filter for the Tri-Water        System at page 9. This statement was untrue. Manufacturers of        paddle switches specifically provide that they cannot be        trimmed, and must be used as they are provided by the factory.        Therefore, this oversight, namely the failure to provide a flow        switch, meant that very few Tri-Water Systems were installed,        and the concept fell from favor. A Tri-Water System is shown in        FIG. 24, with improvements incorporated pursuant to the present        invention. As with the old Tri-Water System, using the present        invention, the same piping to be used for heating and cooling        water as well as for feeding fire protection sprinklers. Parent        Applications

The Parent Applications (U.S. Pat. No. 6,081,196 issued Jun. 27, 2000,U.S. Pat. No. 6,239,708 issued May 29, 2001, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,333,695issues Dec. 25, 2001) disclosed the MPS with a water flow alarm. Sincethey envisioned the MPS, common piping carried water throughout thesystem. After passing through the main control valve, water passed by apressure gauge, then through a flow detection means. In combination theflow detection means and the pressure gauge allowed for determination ofwhether the water supply is sufficient for fire protection needs. Theflow detection means was connected to an alarm means which activatedupon the detection of a flow rate greater than maximum domestic flow.Methods of detecting and measuring flow and alarming upon excessive floware illustrated, for example, in Otten, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,228,469.Disposed after the detection means was a drain test connection. Thisdrain test connection served the same purpose as it did in the priorart. The drain test connection also preferably included an orifice platewith interchangeable orifice plates for simulating different flowregimes. For example, one orifice plate could simulate the operation ofa single fire sprinkler while another orifice plate simulated thedomestic usage. These interchangeable orifice plates could then be usedto calibrate the operation of the alarm means. Common piping carriedwater throughout the system to both domestic and fire protection uses.Rather than having distinct fire sides and domestic sides, the ParentApplications disclosed short sections of pipe split off from the commonpiping which were designated as either fire side or domestic side.

The Parent Applications also disclosed a flow sensor incorporating acombination orifice flow meter/displacement magnetic flow sensor in anannular housing. The annular housing was preferably be composed of anon-magnetic, metallic material, such as aluminum. Alternatively, theannular housing could be comprised of a polymer such as CPVC or similarmaterials. The material of construction was not critical so long as itdid not interfere with the magnetic activation of the Reed switch. Theannular housing had two ends, and at each end a bushing or reduceradapted to be threadedly (or by a socket) attached thereto to allowconnection of an inlet pipe at an inlet end of the annular housing andan outlet pipe at an outlet end of the annular housing. A moving orificeplate, having a front face and a back face, was adapted to be receivedwithin the annular housing. The annular housing had at least one sectionwith a continuous diameter defined therein for receiving the movingorifice plate. The moving orifice plate had a diameter which wasslightly smaller than that of the continuous diameter section of theannular housing, allowing a sliding motion therein, but preventingexcess fluid to flow around a periphery of the moving orifice plate. Amoving plate opening was defined at or near the center of the movingorifice plate. An orifice plate magnet flange having a diameter largerthan that of the moving plate opening was disposed on a back face.Disposed substantially around and outside the flange was a circularorifice plate magnet. The moving orifice plate was biased away from theoutlet end by a orifice plate spring. The orifice plate spring wascontained between an interior flange shoulder near the outlet end, andthe orifice plate magnet. Mounted on an exterior portion of the annularhousing was a Reed switch. The Reed switch was attached to the annularhousing by an adjustable attachment means. Adjustment screws held theadjustable attachment means in place and allowed it to be loosened formovement of the Reed switch for calibration of the device.

The Parent Applications also disclosed another related embodiment of thecombination orifice flow meter/displacement magnetic flow sensor. Thisembodiment was adapted to be used in systems where a water softener orsimilar pressure drop causing device is present. The outlet to the watersoftener was on the supply side of the sensor, and the inlet from thewater softener was on the system side of the sensor. A “bullet rod” washeld in place by a bullet port within the annular housing. The bulletport was comprised of an outer annular ring held in place between anannular shoulder and a bushing, support legs projecting inwardly fromthe annular ring, and an inner support ring. An open port area wasdefined between each of the support legs. Preferably, the sum of theopen port areas was at least as large as the cross sectional area of theinlet pipe connected to the sensor, thus, the pressure drop through thedevice was minimized. A bullet rod having a head portion with a leadingend and a threaded male end adapted to be received through the innersupport ring was provided. A tail portion had a threaded female endadapted to threadedly engage the male end, so that the tail portion isheld in place against the inner support ring. The tail portion also hada tapered end. The tapered end faced the outlet end of the sensor. Themoving orifice plate opening was sized to receive the tail portion so asto allow sliding motion of the moving orifice plate and also to minimizeflow between the tail and the orifice plate. Thus, as the moving orificeplate was displaced toward the outlet end by pressure drop,substantially all of the flow was diverted through the water softeneruntil the pressure drop created by fire flow displaced the orifice platepast the tapered end, at which point water flowed through the orifice inthe orifice plate. As discussed below, preferably two Reed switches wereprovided, the first for a trouble alarm, and the second for enunciatingthe alarm means.

Another embodiment of a fire protection system incorporating theapparatus is discussed below. The water from the water supply firstflows through a flow sensor passing through an inlet softener line to awater softener or similar water treatment or processing device andthence through the outlet softener line back through the flow sensor.The operation of the flow sensor will be more fully describedhereinafter, but for the present time it is sufficient to say that theflow sensor typically directs water through the inlet softener linethrough the water softener and then back through the sensor to a firstpipe section. However, whether there is an excessive water demand in thesystem, for example such as one caused by the operation of a fireprotection sprinkler, there is a mechanism incorporated in the flowsensor which allows water to bypass the water softener increasing theflow rate through the system. The water, which is passed through thewater softener, is next split, some of it passing into the cold waterpiping, and the rest of it passing into a second pipe section.

The water from the second pipe section next passes through a second flowsensor. A check valve may also be incorporated in the second pipesection. The check valve prevents back flow of water, which potentiallycould be stagnate from the fire protection system, to the cold waterpiping and/or the water softener. The second flow sensor passes waterdown through a water heater via an inlet heater line, and back to thesensor via an outlet heater line. Again, the second flow sensorincorporates a bypass means which allows water to bypass the waterheater where there is an excessive demand. After being heated, the waterpasses into a multi-purpose pipe section. Attached to the multi-purposepipe section are typical domestic uses such as a shower head and afaucet. Other uses, such as toilets, dishwashers, washing machines, andthe like may also be attached to the multi-purpose pipe section. Also incommunication with the multi-purpose pipe section are one or moresprinkler heads. The sprinkler heads are in communication via a passivepump and a head fitting with a multi-purpose pipe section. The operationof the passive pump in cooperation with the head fitting and thesprinkler heads will be more fully described hereinafter. However, thepurpose of the passive pump is to utilize the velocity head of waterflowing through the multi-purpose pipe section to circulate water to andaround the sprinkler heads to minimize stagnation thereat.

Two flow sensors may be incorporated into the multi-purpose pipingsystem. If there is no water softener, there will not be a need for oneof the flow sensors. The only flow sensor will be on the hot waterheater. Alternatively, it may be desirable to have only one flow sensorpresent at the water softener. In such a case, the flow sensor at thewater softener will also measure the cold water flow, potentiallycontributing to more false alarms in the multi-purpose alarm system.However, this may be desirable where the risk of false alarms is notsubstantial, and the cost savings is sufficient enough to justify asingle sensor at the water softener only. It is not believed that thehot water heater will cause a significant pressure drop in the flowtherethrough. Therefore, the bypass means at the hot water heater is notbelieved to be necessary to ensure that adequate flow is available forfire protection needs. Rather, as shown, the advantages that the flowsensor placed on the hot water heater only measures the flow through thehot water domestic uses, as well as the flow to the fire protectionsprinklers. Thus, the chance of a false alarm is minimized.

From the passive pump, water is passed to a head fitting. The waterpasses to the head fitting from the multi-purpose pipe section via thehead supply line. It is returned to the multi-purpose pipe section viathe head return line. A reverse-j fitting supplies water from the headfitting to the sprinkler head. The purpose of the reverse-j fitting isto cool the water supplied to the sprinkler head to insure that thesprinkler head is not activated by the temperature of the water suppliedthereto. Most sprinkler heads are set to activate at a temperature of155° Fahrenheit. While it is not anticipated that hot water flowingthrough the multi-purpose piping system will exceed that temperature(most hot water heaters have a 140° Fahrenheit maximum temperature), thereverse-j fitting helps to insure that just in case the water doesexceed that temperature, the fire sprinkler is not inadvertentlyactivated by water passing thereto.

As shown, a thermocouple in communication with the pump controller andcontrol wiring operates to ensure that a minimum desired temperature ismaintained in the common piping. The thermocouple measures thetemperature of water in the common piping. If the measured temperaturedrops below a preselected level (preferably at least 40° Fahrenheit),the pump controller initiates the action of a pump. The measuredtemperature may be a water temperature in the system preferably remotefrom the utility room where the heater is located. Alternatively, thetemperature may be an air temperature or a combination of air and watertemperature measurements. The pump draws water from the common pipingvia a pump inlet pipe. A pump outlet pipe directs water through a checkvalve and a return pipe so that it is recycled through the water heater.The return pipe connects to the inlet heater line to complete thecircuit. Thus, water moved by the pump through the water heater isreheated to maintain a minimum temperature in the multi-purpose pipesection.

An alternative embodiment includes a return leg supply pipe and a returnleg flow sensor. The return leg supply pipe may be in communication withthe first pipe section. The return leg flow sensor normally prevents anywater from flowing directly from the first pipe section through thereturn leg supply pipe into the multi-purpose pipe section. However,when an excessive water demand is made on the multi-purpose pipesection, the pressure may drop low enough so that the return leg flowsensor (without an alarm means) allows water to pass there throughdirectly from the first pipe section, bypassing the flow sensor and theother elements of the water heater system. Alternatively, the return legflow sensor may draw water from the multi-purpose pipe section at apoint adjacent to the outlet from the flow sensor. This creates analternative flow path for hydraulic advantage in the design of thesystem.

To reiterate, one of the problems to be solved by the ParentApplications was provision of a water-flow-based means of alarming theMPS. In the past, such systems had to utilize two completely differentpiping systems: one for domestic uses and one for fire sprinkler systemuses. Previous alarms used in these systems were designed to create analarm condition upon the detection of a flow (commonly 8–10 gpm). Asnoted previously, vane-type switches are very inaccurate in determiningflow rate. Typical domestic flows could have caused an alarm in a priorart system. Alternatively, prior art systems used a smoke detection andalarm system which did not have a flow detector. These systems without aflow detector risked substantial water damage to the structure if asprinkler head activated while no one was in the home.

The Parent Applications used the principle that domestic flow rates aremuch lower than flow rates needed for fire protection. Using a flowdetection means, it was possible to create an alarm condition only upondetection of flows which are such as created by fire protection needs.Thus, an alarm condition was not created when typical domestic uses onlywere detected.

Preferably, the Parent Applications also incorporated a tamper detectionmeans on the main control valve. The tamper protection means determinedwhether the main control valve was closed, and if so, enunciating atrouble alarm. A pressure gauge was also preferably provided in thesystem.

The combination orifice flow meter/displacement magnetic flow sensordisclosed in the Parent Applications preferably had two normally openReed switches disposed thereon for detecting flow as indicating bydisplacement of the moving orifice plate. The first Reed switch was thesame as previously disclosed, and enunciates a fire alarm via the firealarm means. Preferably, the first Reed switch also activated a systemwhich contacts emergency response personnel, such as fire departments.In addition to the fire alarm Reed switch, a second Reed switch may beprovided. The second Reed switch enunciated a first stage “troublealarm”. Preferably, the first stage trouble alarm only enunciated withinthe structure (i.e., emergency response personnel were not contacted).The trouble alarm was created if the domestic usage was excessive. Wherethe system was used with the MPS, the first stage alarm would naturallycause anyone in the residence to instinctively shut off water, forexample a shower they may be taking. As another example, if a residentheard a first stage alarm, and they were washing dishes, they would mostlikely shut off the sink faucet. This natural reaction to the firststage alarm may reduce the water flow demand below the level where thefirst stage alarm enunciates, eliminating the alarm condition. The firststage Reed switch is displaced a slight distance toward the inlet of theflow sensor relative to the fire alarm Reed switch. Thus, as the movingorifice plate is displaced towards the outlet end of the flow sensor, itwill first activate the first stage Reed switch, enunciating theinternal first stage trouble alarm. As the orifice plate continues to bedisplaced towards the outlet end, it will next activate the fire alarmReed switch, which enunciates the alarm means, preferably notifyingemergency response personnel. The relative linear displacement of thefire alarm Reed switch and the trouble Reed switch was to be set in thefield so that there was sufficient differential in the flow whichactivates the first stage alarm and the fire alarm to give residents oroccupants of the structures sufficient time to shut off domestic demandsbefore a fire alarm is created. This two-stage system also serve as asafety back up, because if one of the alarm stages fail, the other stillalerted residents to the potential alarm condition.

Tamper detection means on the main control valve preferably incorporatedReed switches as well. As the handle was turned, a magnet on the handleactivated a normally open Reed switch, causing it to close, enunciatingan alarm notifying the occupants of the structure that the main controlvalve had been closed, and the fire protection system was not beingsupplied with water. Again, this is an important safety consideration inresidential systems where small children, unknowing homeowners, and thelike can easily turn off the system without realizing they are shuttingoff their fire protection system as well. However, the tamper means ismore critical in commercial stand-alone systems. Otherwise, no one mightnotice the valve was closed until the sprinkler system failed to operatewhen needed. In an MPS, the residents of the structure would quicklyrealize the valve was off because they would not have any water fordomestic uses.

Though the Parent Applications described the inventions therein withreference to a multi-purpose piping system, it should be understood thatthe system could be used with any flow-based system. Further, the flowdetection means disclosed herein could be used with any flow system, notjust fire protection systems. That is, the flow detection means arecapable of detecting the flow of any fluid through a piping system. Thepiping system could carry hydrocarbons, solvents, or any other liquid orpotentially gaseous materials for that matter.

In operation the apparatus disclosed in the Parent Applicationsfunctioned as both a domestic water supply system and a smoke detectionand alarm system. Under normal conditions, the water flow rate throughthe flow detection means did not reach the fire suppression flow rates.When one or more sprinkler heads activated, the flow detection meansdetected the increased flow and sent an alarm to the alarm means. Thealarm means enunciated a visible and/or audible alarm indicating thealarm condition. It is well known in the prior art to activate atelephone modem-based system for calling, for example, the firedepartment, upon detection of an alarm condition. See, e.g., Otten, U.S.Pat. No. 5,139,044. It was preferable to incorporate such a modem-basedcomponent in the present invention to notify the fire department andother emergency contacts should a fire alarm condition be detected. Ifone or more domestic cutoff valves were included in the apparatus, theflow detection means also sent a signal to activate the domestic cutoffvalves, shutting off water to one or more domestic uses and providingmore water for the fire sprinklers.

When the two-stage alarm system was provided, it was necessary tocalibrate both the first stage trouble alarm Reed Switch and the secondstage fire alarm Reed switch. The preferred method was to firstcalibrate the fire alarm Reed switch. The calibration was very simple.First, the drain test connection is opened to simulate fire protectionneeds, the connection means for the Reed switch were loosened, and itwas moved towards the inlet end of the sensor until an alarm conditionwas created. The first stage Reed switch was then moved a slightdistance further towards the inlet end. A typical domestic demand wasthen created by using the drain test connection or flowing water fromsome number of plumbing fixtures. As the flow through the drain testconnection exceeds the high end of the expected domestic demand, thefirst stage Reed switch should be activated, activating a first stagetrouble alarm. If the alarm is not activated, the first stage Reedswitch is moved further towards the inlet end of the sensor.

In prior systems it was often necessary to provide both a double checkvalve element and a flow detection/measurement/control sensor. Both ofthe elements increased the cost of this system and increased thepressure drop through the system. There was a need for a flow sensorthat could both serve as a double check and as a flow detection ormeasurement means.

In multi-purpose piping systems, as well as stand-alone fire protectionsystems, there was the problem of stagnation (where water was to be usedfor human consumption) of water in the piping as well as the problem offreezing, where piping was exposed to temperatures lower than 32°Fahrenheit. Freezing presented itself as a problem where piping wasinstalled, for example, in an attic of a residence. There was therefor aneed for a system which provides for the warming of pipes to preventfreezing, as well as circulation through the pipes to preventstagnation.

Another problem that plagued prior art systems was the issue ofretrofitting existing structures for fire protection systems.Retrofitting for a fire protection system in a typical structure wouldbe very expensive because, where the freezing issue is a problem, pipingwould have to be installed in conduits below the ceiling of thestructure (or at least under insulation) to prevent the danger offreezing.

In commercial systems, fire protection sprinklers have been standardequipment for years. In addition, these buildings have also beenprovided with piping to circulate heated/cooled water for temperaturecontrol purposes. It would be advantageous if the fire protection pipingcould be combined with the piping to distribute heated/cooled water.However, the greater demands of flow required for fire protectionpurposes had previously prevented this dual use of the piping. The“tri-water system” which proposed to use the same piping for bothpurposes provided for a water flow alarm, which made the systemundesirable, and eventually resulted in its abandonment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide an apparatus forflow detection and measurement. It is also an object to provide a methodfor using the disclosed apparatus in fire protection systems. Theapparatus and method overcome one or more of the disadvantages of theprior apparatus and systems.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus forflow detection, and measurement. The apparatus includes a moving platemeans, a sensor means, and a biasing means. It may also include asealing means for preventing flow through the sensor until a specifieddifferential pressure is reached. The apparatus for flow detection andmeasurement can incorporate a bypass means for allowing additional flowto pass through the flow measurement device as needed. When water isallowed to flow through the bypass means, an alarm may be enunciatedshould the flow reach a specified level. More particularly, the objectsof the apparatus may be accomplished by providing a moving orifice platewith a magnet moving in cooperation therewith. The magnet activates aReed switch on an external surface of the flow sensor when the movingorifice plate is displaced a sufficient distance by the flow passingthrough the sensor. When the water demand exceeds that which can flowthrough the primary path, the moving orifice plate is displaced beyondbullet rod allowing flow through the orifice.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a flow sensor whichcan serve as a single or double check valve. This object of theinvention is achieved by providing a moving seat, in cooperation withthe moving plate, for providing two back flow prevention means. Whenwater moves through the flow sensor in the desired direction, the movingseat allows water to pass thereby, and when sufficient water flowsthrough the sensor, the moving orifice plate is displaced so that watercan pass through the orifice therein or around the periphery of theplate. When water flows in the undesired direction, the moving seat isbiased to cause a sealing action of a check o-ring against a checkshoulder seat. Similarly, the moving orifice plate is biased so as tocreate a seal between an outer seat and an outer orifice o-ring, as wellas between an inner seat and an inner orifice o-ring. Thus, incombination, the moving seat and the orifice plate provide a doublecheck. Incorporating the double check technology, a single flow sensorcan serve as a flow measurement device, a double check valve, a bypassmeans, a flow and pressure gauge or ports, as well as creating anelectronic output signal for enunciating an alarm or the like.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a fire protectionpiping system having a water supply, a means for heating water, at leastone fire protection sprinkler, a common piping means for receiving waterfrom the supply, passing it through the heating means and delivering itto at least one fire protection sprinkler, and circulating means forcirculating water through the common piping back to the heating means tomaintain a specified minimum temperature in the common piping. Byproviding these elements, the danger of water freezing in the commonpiping is eliminated. In one embodiment, the circulation means comprisesa pump controlled by a temperature measurement means for determiningwhen the temperature of water in the piping drops below the minimumtemperature specified. The controller engaging the pump whichre-circulates the water in the piping through the heating means once thetemperature drops below the desired level. At the same time, therecirculating of hot water through the system also eliminates theproblem of stagnation.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide the foregoingadvantages in a system where at least one domestic uses is also suppliedwith hot water by the common piping. When the present system is used ina multi-purpose piping system, homeowners have the added benefit ofinstant hot water from a faucet or the like.

It is an object of the present invention as well to provide a flowsensor which incorporates at least a single stage means for enunciatingan alarm. The flow sensor may incorporate as many as three or morelevels of alarm for the taking of various actions by the system upon thedetection of the specified level of flow required to enunciate thealarm.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a means tocompensate for pressure drops in a typical MPS. More particularly,typical pressure drops include, but are not limited to, a water softenerwhich may be placed in line in the system. Water softeners are typicallyused in multi-purpose systems to improve the quality of water fordomestic use in the residence. In addition to water softeners, pressuredrops may include filters, UV treatment of water, and the like. Thereare many reasons why people want to treat water coming into their homesfor domestic purposes. Many of these treatment means will reduce thepressure of the water through the MPS system. Thus, there may be a needfor fire protection flows to bypass these pressure drops in the system,or to at least compensate for them. The present invention takes thesetypes of pressure drops into account by providing a bypass means. Intypical domestic flow situations, the entire flow of the water supplygoes through the treatment method in question, such as a water softener.However, when the system side pressure drops below a set level, a reliefallows additional flows through a lower pressure drop path.

By the same token, devices previously available for the measurement offlow caused another pressure drop. As noted above, pressure drops in theMPS can prevent sufficient flow from being available to satisfy fireprotection needs. Therefore, it is also an object of the presentinvention to provide a volume flow detection and measurement means foruse in the MPS which have minimal pressure drops. The flow detectionmeans discussed are very simple in operation and easy to calibrate inthe field. They may be used to provide a read out of the flow, or maysimply provide an alarm when fire protection flows are detected.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a flowmeasurement device with a higher capacity still for use in standard wetpipe systems. Under some circumstances, it may be desirable to use anexpanded chamber system along with the orifice plate. In these devices,as the orifice plate is deflected backwardly by the water pressure andflow, it moves into an area of expanded cross-section where the watercan flow not only through the center of the orifice plate, but aroundthe edges thereof. This expanded area minimizes the pressure dropthrough the flow sensor at high demands, such as is the case wheremultiple sprinkler heads may have activated.

It is an object of the invention to provide a system which canincorporate both a water softener and use of heated water from the hotwater heater in the structure. As noted above, the bypass means may bethe flow sensor as described herein. Alternatively, the bypass means maycomprise a flow sensor for measuring fluid flowing through the commonpiping, a normally closed valve, and a controller in communication withthe flow sensor and in a controlling position of the valve for openingthe valve when demand for water exceeds the capacity of flow througheither the heating means and/or the water softener. This valve-basedbypass system requires mechanical intervention, so it is not as simpleas the system incorporating the valve and the flow sensor with integralbypass means. However, it may be desirable in some applications.

A system for providing circulation of water around fire protectionsprinklers, the system comprising, common piping carrying water, whichwater is caused to flow at periodic intervals; a head fitting receivinga fire protection sprinkler therein and further defining a chambertherein in communication with the sprinkler; supply and return lines forsupplying water to and returning water from the head fitting; and a pumpmeans for using the velocity head created by water flowing through thecommon piping to pump water to the head fitting causing circulationthere through as a result of and in cooperation with flow through thecommon piping, is disclosed. As disclosed, the circulation systems doesnot require any mechanical input. That is, no pumps or motors arerequired for the pumping system. However, it is anticipated that in somecases it may be desirable to use a mechanical pump based on eitherelectrical, air, or similar power means. In those cases, the pump willnot rely on the velocity head of water flowing through the commonpiping.

It is also an object of the invention to provide a integrated systemincorporating the above-noted elements of the invention and having atwo-stage alarm for enunciating a pre-alarm, as well as a full-blownfire alarm. The integrated system has two sensors on the flow detectiondevice, the first sensor enunciating a trouble alarm when a specifiedflow is created, and if the flow further increases, a second sensorenunciating a fire alarm, which also preferably calls emergency responsepersonnel. The first trouble alarm is audible only in the residence orstructure where the system is deployed. Preferably, as noted, the secondfire alarm will contact emergency personnel, possibly via a telephonemodem-type connection. The integrated system also preferablyincorporates a tamper switch on a valve incorporated in the system toshut off the flow thereto. The tamper switch will enunciate if waterflow to the fire protection system is shut off.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a system for use in acommercial application which meets the heating/cooling needs of thestructure, as well as the needs for fire protection. The integratedsystem uses one set of piping to provide re-circulated water forheating/cooling, as well as to provide water for fire protectionpurposes. A water flow alarm is provided in the system using one ofseveral means to determine whether a fire sprinkler has been activated.

Another object of the invention is to provide a system which can be usedas a water flow monitor when a structure is unoccupied. That is, usingthe flow sensor apparatus in cooperation with a standard structuralalarm system, it is possible to create a water flow alarm which willindicate when there is a probable leak in a structure. The structurealarms in question typically have three modes of operation: a first modewhere the structure is occupied, and the alarm is not armed; a secondmode where the structure is occupied, but the alarm is activated; and athird mode where the structure is unoccupied. The water monitor alarmonly operates when the alarm system is in the third mode, indicatingthat there should be little or no water usage within the structure.

Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a shut offvalve to automatically prevent water from flowing to a lawn sprinklershould a trouble or fire alarm be enunciated. The shut off valve wouldbe activated by a controller or directly by the signal sent from theflow sensor, indicating that there was either a trouble alarm or a firealarm condition. Where this shut off valve is incorporated into thepresent system, it may be preferable to have a normally closed Reedswitch along with the other Reed switches, to close the normally closedshut off valve when a magnet is displaces sufficiently far to activateeither the trouble alarm or the fire alarm.

There have thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more importantfeatures of the invention in order that the detailed description thereofthat follows may be better understood, and in order that the presentcontribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are, of course,additional features of the invention that will be described hereinafterand which will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.

In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of theinvention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is notlimited in this application to the details of construction and to thearrangements of the components set forth in the following description orillustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of otherembodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways.Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminologyemployed herein are for the purpose of description and should not beregarded as limiting. As such, those skilled in the art will appreciatethat the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily beutilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods andsystems for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention.Additional benefits and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent in those skilled in the art to which the present inventionrelates from the subsequent description of the preferred embodiment andthe appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded asincluding such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not departfrom the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Further, the purpose of the foregoing abstract is to enable the U.S.Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally, and especially thescientist, engineers and practitioners in the art who are not familiarwith patent or legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from acursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure ofthe application. The abstract is neither intended to define theinvention of the application which is measured by the claims, nor is itintended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention in any way.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the flowapparatus/sensor.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the flowapparatus incorporating an enlarged section to accommodate increasedflow.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a double check apparatus.

FIG. 4 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the moving check used inthe double check apparatus of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a detailed front view of the moving check.

FIG. 6 is a detailed back view of the moving check.

FIG. 7 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the moving orifice plateused in the double check apparatus of FIG. 3.

FIG. 8 is a detailed front view of the moving orifice plate.

FIG. 9 is a detailed back view of the moving orifice plate.

FIG. 10 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the bullet port used inthe double check apparatus of FIG. 3.

FIG. 11 is a detailed front view of the bullet port.

FIG. 12 is a detailed back view of the bullet port.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a doublecheck valve where the magnet is plastic coated and forms the movingorifice plate.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a doublecheck valve.

FIG. 15 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a check cage used in thedouble check valve of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a detailed side view of the check cage.

FIG. 17 is a detailed front view of the check cage.

FIG. 18 is a detailed back view of the check cage.

FIG. 19 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the moving check adaptedto be housed within the check cage.

FIG. 20 is a detailed front view of the moving check.

FIG. 21 is a detailed back view of the moving check.

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of another apparatus embodying presentinvention incorporating an adjustable vane to cause diversion of flow.

FIG. 23 is a schematic view of a fire protection system incorporatingboth domestic uses and the flow apparatus described in the presentinvention.

FIG. 24 is a schematic view of a “tri-water” system incorporating theapparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a schematic view of a water softener bypass incorporating theprinciples of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a view of a riser assembly incorporating the principles ofthe present invention.

FIG. 27 is a schematic view of a warm water circulating systemincorporating the apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a flow sensorsimilar to FIG. 1, but incorporating different sensor technology.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A flow sensor, from which the flow sensor disclosed herein was describedin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/483,999, filed Jan. 18, 2000.That application disclosed a flow sensor, which could be used with amulti-purpose piping system for a fire suppression system/domestic watersupply system in a structure. The device was disclosed as being used ina fire protection system, but it was noted that the sensor could be usedin any flow measurement situation as well as in situations where abypass means was desirable. The device disclosed more fully hereinafter,is intended to, and certainly can, be used in any appropriate flowmeasurement situation. For example, in a petrochemical facility,materials may be passed through a reactor unit to cause a change intheir chemical structure. However, should the reactor become plugged, itmay become desirable to have a bypass mechanism which allows thepetrochemical to be vented to an emergency flare system, rather thancausing a rupture or other failure of the reactor vessel. Such anapplication would be an appropriate use for the present flow sensor.

Sensors designed according to the present invention generally have amoving plate means, a sensor means, and a biasing means. In addition tothe above-noted elements, the sensors may have a sealing means forpreventing flow through the sensor until a specified differentialpressure is reached. The sealing means may generally be a bullet rodreceived within an orifice defined in a moving plate, or it may be acylinder which slidingly and sealingly receives the moving plate means,which cylinder is closed for a portion of its length, and open foranother portion of its length to allow flow therethrough.

The sensor means will be more fully described hereinafter. However, in apreferred embodiment, the sensor means is a magnet in cooperation with aReed switch. The sensor means may also be electrical contacts, asillustrated in FIG. 28, a pressure transducer engaged with the biasingmeans for measuring the pressure caused by the displacement of themoving plate, or use of the spring itself as a resistance coil, whichcoil has resistance that changes in proportion to its compression. Thescope of the invention is intended to incorporate well-known technologyfor measuring the displacement of the moving plate. Such technologiesinclude, but are not limited to those noted above.

FIGS. 1 and 2 reproduce drawings from U.S. patent application Ser. No.08/450,535 filed Nov. 30, 1999 by the present Applicant. The device aspreviously described is a combination orifice flow meter/displacementmagnetic flow sensor, which will be referred to herein as a flow sensorapparatus 100. The flow sensor apparatus 100 has an annular housing 102.A bushing 104 is adapted to be received at the outlet end 128 of theflow sensor apparatus 100. The bushing 104 defines a shoulder 124, theuse for which will be described more fully later. Disclosed within theannular housing 102 is a moving orifice plate 106. The moving orificeplate 106 defines an opening 108 therein. Disposed about a periphery ofthe orifice plate 106 is a magnet 112, which is maintained in place inthe particular embodiment shown by a magnet flange 110. A spring 114,also referred to as a biasing means, biases the magnet 112 and movingorifice plate 106 toward the inlet end 126 of the apparatus. A Reedswitch 116 is held on an outside surface of the flow sensor apparatus110 by an adjustable attachment means 118. The adjustable attachmentmeans 118 is preferably simply a clip with screws that penetrate theannular housing 102. When the screws are loosened, the Reed switch canslide either towards the inlet end 126 or towards the outlet end 128.The moving orifice plate 106 has a front face 120 and a back face 122.The front face 120 faces toward the inlet end 126. The back face 122faces towards the outlet end 128. The spring 114 is set against ashoulder 124 near the outlet end 128. Preferably, a pressure gauge 130is disposed in communication with the fluid at the inlet end 126, and aflow gauge 132 is disposed in communication with the fluid near theoutlet end 128.

FIG. 28 shows a device 2800 similar to the apparatus 100 shown inFIG. 1. The device 2800 has an annular housing 2802 with a bushing 2804adapted to be received at each end thereof. Received within the annularhousing 2802 is an orifice plate 2806 which can slidingly and sealinglymove therein. The orifice plate 2806 has an opening 2808 definedtherein. The annular housing 2802 has an inlet end 2826 and an outletend 2828. A spring 2814 resting against a shoulder 2824 biases theorifice plate 2806 toward the inlet 2826. The face 2820 of the orificeplate 2806 faces the inlet 2826. A pressure gauge 2830 and a flow gauge2832 are in full communication with the fluid inside the annularhousing.

A first and second contact 2840 and 2842, respectively, indicate whenthe orifice plate, which is preferably conductive, is in direct physicalcontact with the bushing 2804 a at the inlet end 2826. Other electricalcontacts 2844, 2846, and 2848 are spaced along the length of an interiorportion of the annular housing, for sending a signal when the orificeplate 2806 comes in contact therewith. The contacts, which are shown aspoints, may also be constructed as a wall segment in the interior of theannular housing. Thus, the moving orifice plate 2806 would be in contactwith that segment of the wall until it moved past that wall segment inone direction or the other. The whole time it was in contact with thewall segment in question, it would be sending a signal indicating suchcontact to the a controller.

Also shown in the device 2800 are pressure sensors 2850 and 2852. Thepressure sensors as shown are located on the shoulder 2824 in physicalcontact with the spring 2814. As the spring is biased backwardly byfluid flow therethrough, it places additional pressure on the sensors2850 and 2852. The readout proportion of that pressure can becommunicated to a controller, and the readout is directly proportionalto the flow rate through the device.

Alternatively, a current can be passed through the spring on aconsistent basis. As the compression of the spring changes, itsresistivity will change as well. The change in resistivity can bedirectly proportional to the compression of the spring, indicating thedisplacement of the moving orifice plate. Thus, a readout of theresistivity of the spring can be directly related to the flow throughthe device.

As noted above, there are numerous other sensor means which could beused to determine the displacement of the moving orifice plate insidethe annular housing. Such well-known technologies are intended to beincorporated within the spirit of the present invention.

The flow sensor apparatus 200 as shown in FIG. 2 is similar to the flowsensor apparatus shown in FIG. 1. However, the flow sensor apparatus inFIG. 2 is an expanding section 206 which allows, in addition to flowthrough the opening 212 and the moving orifice plate 210, for flowaround the outside of the moving orifice plate 210 in the expandingsection 206. Again, the device has an annular housing 202, including afixed diameter section 204, an expanding section 206, and a largestsection 208. The moving orifice plate 210 initially moves within thefixed diameter section 204, but as the flow increases it is displacedback into the expanding section 206 where the flow passes not onlythrough the opening 212 but around the moving orifice plate 210. Again,a magnet 214 is disposed moving in conjunction with the moving orificeplate 210. An adjustable attachment means 216 is provided to attach aReed switch 218 to an outer surface of the apparatus. A spring 220 againbiases the moving orifice plate 210 and the magnet 214 towards the inlet224. The spring 220 resting against a shoulder 222 near the outlet 226.As shown, only a pressure gauge 228 is provided in FIG. 2. However, aflow gauge as shown in FIG. 1 could also be provided. The device shownin FIG. 2 allows for larger flow rates through the device in times ofgreater flow demand, such as for fire protection needs.

FIG. 3 illustrates a double check configuration of a flow sensor. Thedouble check flow sensor 300 is generally shown in FIG. 3. It iscomprised of substantially a first housing portion 302 and a secondhousing portion 304. At an end of the first housing portion 302 is amain inlet port 306, and a main outlet port 308 is disposed at an end ofthe second housing portion 304. In cooperation, the first housingportion 302 and second housing portion 304 define a chamber 310 therein.Disposed in the chamber 310 is a bullet port 312 integrally connected toa bullet rod 314. The bullet rod 314 defines therein a cylinder 316. Amoving check 318 has a check piston 322 which is slidingly receivedwithin the bullet cylinder 316. A check o-ring 320 is disposed on themoving check 318 for sealing against the check shoulder seat 336. Acheck spring 324 disposed in the bullet cylinder 316 biases the movingcheck 318 towards the check shoulder seat 336. Disposed between thebullet port 312 and the main outlet port 308 is a moving orifice plate330. On the moving orifice plate 330 are an outer orifice o-ring 332 andan inner orifice o-ring 334. An orifice spring 338 biases the orificeplate 330 in cooperating a magnet 340 towards the main inlet port 306,and away from the main outlet port 308. As shown, the sensor 300includes a device outlet port 350 and a device return port 352. Theseports allow the sensor to normally divert flow through an externaldevice such as a water softener, but to allow bypassing the device whenthere is a demand that exceeds the flow capacity of the device.

Preferably, the spring 338 has a sufficient resistance to compressionthat it maintains the orifice plate 330 in firm contact with the bulletport 312, preventing any flow therethrough until a specified pressuredrop is placed on the device. For example, it may be desirable to have apressure drop of ten pounds before any fluids can pass through thesensor. In that case, the spring 338 might maintain the orifice plate330 in firm sealing contact with the bullet port 312 until a pressure ofeight pounds, for example, is noted. Thus, the orifice plate 330 wouldnot begin to move away from the bullet port until at least eight poundsof pressure drop was placed upon it. This feature is desirable becausethere is a slight bypass around the periphery of the orifice plate 330and around the interior of the orifice plate once it moves away fromsealing contact with the bullet port 312. This bypass may be from fiveto fifteen percent, but it does result in some non-softened waterbypassing the system and proceeding on to domestic or other uses.

The moving check 318 is generally shown in FIGS. 4 through 6. FIG. 4 isa cross-sectional view of the moving check 318. It incorporates aleading edge 400, as well as a piston end 402 opposite from the leadingedge 400. A shoulder 404 is also defined. A periphery 406 extends aroundthe terminal portion of the leading edge 400. The check piston 322 issized to be slidingly received within the bullet cylinder 316. The checko-ring 320 is sized so as to sealingly seat against the check shoulderseat 336. FIG. 5 is a front view of the moving check 318 showing theleading edge 400 and the check o-ring 320. FIG. 6 is a rear view of themoving check 318 showing a shoulder 404 and the piston end 402.

FIGS. 7 through 9 illustrate the moving orifice plate 330. FIG. 7 is adetailed cross sectional view of the moving orifice plate 330. The firstface 700 faces the main inlet port 306. Disposed thereon are an outerorifice o-ring 332 and an inner orifice o-ring 334. A second face 702 isopposite the first face 700. An orifice 704 passes from the first face700 to the second face 702, defining a hole therethrough. The orifice704 is sized to slidingly receive the bullet rod 314 therein.

FIGS. 10 through 12 generally illustrate the bullet port 312. FIG. 10 isa detailed cross sectional view of the bullet port 312. An outer annularring 1000 and an inner support ring 1002 are generally shown. Extendingaway from the inner support ring 1002 is the bullet rod 314. The outerannular ring 1000 defines an outer seat 1004, and the inner support ring1002 defines an inner seat 1006. The outer orifice o-ring 332, and theinner orifice o-ring 334 are designed to sealingly engage the outer andinner seats 1004 and 1006, respectively. At a terminal portion of thebullet rod 314, a rod end 1008 is defined. It is anticipated that therod end 1008 will be closed, though there may be a hole therethrough toallow the check piston 322 to freely move within the bullet cylinder 316without creating a vacuum. FIG. 11 is a front view of the bullet port312 showing the support legs 1100, and the flow holes 1102 defined byvoid spaces surrounded by the support legs 1100, the outer annular ring1000 and the inner support ring 1002. FIG. 12 is a back view of thebullet port 312, again showing the same features, as well as showing therod end 1008.

FIG. 13 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a double check flowsensor. As shown in FIG. 13, a nylon-coated magnet 1330 serves both asthe source of the magnetic field and as the moving orifice plate—acombination orifice plate/magnet 1330. The flow sensor 1300 is comprisedof a first housing portion 1302 and a second housing portion 1304.Defined within the two housing portions is a chamber 1310 with a maininlet port 1306 and a main outlet port 1308. A bullet port 2112 is fixedat a juncture between the first and second portions 2102 and 2104. Thebullet port 1312 incorporates a bullet rod 1314 extending outwardlytherefrom. Defined within the bullet rod is a bullet cylinder 1316 forslidingly receiving the check piston 1322 portion of a moving check1318. A check o-ring 1320 is disposed on the moving check for sealingengagement with a check shoulder seat 1336. An orifice/magnet spring1338 is disposed within the chamber 1310 for biasing the orificeplate/magnet 1330 toward the main inlet port 1306 and away from the mainoutlet port 1308. The orifice plate/magnet 1330 is coated with arubber/polymer material. It seals against the outer seating surface 1332and the inner sealing surface 1334 of the bullet port 1312. Similarly, acheck spring 1324 is disposed in the bullet cylinder 1316 for biasingthe moving check 1318 toward the main inlet port 1306 and away from themain outlet port 1308. A Reed switch 1340 is shown disposed on an outerwall of the second housing portion 1304.

Another embodiment of the double check type apparatus and relatedcomponents are shown in FIGS. 14 through 21. A double check flow sensorapparatus 1400 is generally shown in FIG. 14. The flow sensor apparatus1400 is comprised of a first annular housing portion 1402 and a secondannular housing portion 1404. Defined in the first annular housingportion 1402 is an inlet 1406, and similarly an outlet 1408 is definedin the second annular housing portion 1404. The two pieces are connectedby a flange connection means 1410. The two housing portions 1402 and1404 cooperate to define a chamber 1434 therein. As shown, the flangeconnection means 1410 is simply two flanges, one of which has an o-ringembedded therein and the other having a smooth seating surface attachedwith one or more flange bolts. The invention also incorporates othermeans for releasably attaching two fittings such as are well known inthe prior art.

Two internal checks are disposed within the chamber defined by the firstannular housing portion 1402 and the second annular housing portion1404. The first internal check 1412 is the first to be encountered byfluid flowing inward from the inlet 1406. The second internal check 1414is the next to be encountered by fluid flowing inward from the inlet1406. The first check 1412 seats against the first seat 1416, and thesecond check 1414 seats against the second seat 1418. A first checko-ring 1426 is disposed about a periphery of the first check 1412, and asimilar second check o-ring 1428 is disposed around a periphery of thesecond check 1414. The purpose of the o-rings is to seat against aninternal surface of a first and second cylinder, 1420 and 1422,respectively. A first magnet 1430 is disposed on the first check 1412and a second magnet 1432 is disposed on the second check 1414. As shown,the first magnet 1430 and the second magnet 1432 (which are coated witha polymer) form the sealing surfaces which seal against the first andsecond seats 1416 and 1418. Those checks are biased towards the inletend 1406 by a first spring 1436 and a second spring 1438. The checks arecontained within check cages 1444 and 1446. A first Reed switch 1440 anda second Reed switch 1442 are adjustably affixed to the first and secondannular housing portions 1402 and 1404, respectively. As the internalchecks 1412 and 1414 are displaced away from the inlet 1406 by fluidflow, they can activate the Reed switch depending on the setting of theReed switch and the flow therethrough. The Reed switch adjustment issimple, consisting of moving the Reed switch closer toward the inlet endor farther away therefrom as needed.

The same type of device could be made with only a single check. Thedouble check is provided because many fire protection standards requirea double check, and they provide an additional level of security toensure that the fluid flow will in fact be checked from flowing in theundesired direction.

Also shown in FIG. 14 are a couple of alternative sensor embodiments.1450 a and 1450 b are contact points, which come into electrical contactwith the second check 1414 as it moves backwardly towards the outlet1408 from the device. This type of electrical contact can be used togive a back up or alternative indication of the location of the checkwithin the device. Another alternative sensor mechanism, to-wit: apressure transducer 1460 is shown as well in FIG. 14. The pressure onthe transducer 1460 is directly proportional to the flow rate throughthe apparatus, and can be used as an alternative or redundant check ofthe flow therethrough.

FIGS. 15 through 18 are detailed drawings of the check cages 1444 and1446. As shown, each check cage has a first and second cylinder portion1420 and 1422. The cylinder portions have an internal diameter 1512 witha smooth bore. Legs 1502 lead from the cylinder to a back end 1504.Attached to the back end 1504 is housing 1506 for receiving checksprings 1436 and 1438. Port openings 1508 are defined between the legs1502 and allow fluid to pass through the check cages 1444 and 1446. Aflange 1510 is defined at a terminal end of the cylinder portion 1500for fixing the check cages 1444 and 1446 in place. In FIG. 17, it can beseen that a flange face 1700 faces the incoming fluid. The housing 1506can also be seen in FIG. 17. In FIG. 18 the legs 1502, as well as theback end 1504, can be seen, as well as the flange shoulder 1800.

FIGS. 19 through 21 are detailed drawings of the first internal check1412 and second internal check 1414. As shown in FIG. 19, the internalcheck includes a check piston portion 1900 having a terminal end 1902. Aleading end 1904 receives the magnets 1430 and 1432. Around a peripheryof the leading end 1904, the check o-ring 1426 and 1428 is disposed. Thediameter of the leading end 1904 is such that the check o-ring 1426 and1428 is adapted to sealingly and slidingly engage the internal diameter1512 of the cylinders 1420 and 1422. The check piston 1900 is adapted tobe slidingly received within the housing 1506. The springs 1436 and 1438press against the terminal end 1902 biasing the internal check towardsthe inlet end 1406 of the apparatus 1400.

An alternative embodiment of an apparatus embodying the concepts of thepresent invention is illustrated in FIG. 22. FIG. 22 shows the vane-typeflow sensor apparatus with a bypass mechanism 2200. The apparatusincludes an inlet 2202 and an outlet 2204. The main flow path 2206 flowsfrom the inlet 2202 through a device outlet 2212, through an externaldevice (such as a water softener) or a bypass tube and back into thedevice through the device inlet 2214, and subsequently out of the devicethrough the outlet 2204. A bypass flow path 2208 allows fluid to flow inthe bypass inlet 2220, past a moving magnet 2216 and out the bypassoutlet 2222, and subsequently out of the device through the outlet 2204.A vane 2210 is disposed within the main flow path 2206, and can berotated to force an increased pressure drop across the vane 2210 forcingmore of the fluid to flow through the bypass flow path 2208. If desired,the vane 2210 can be completely closed off preventing any flow throughthe main flow path 2206. The bypass flow path and moving magnetgenerally blocks the flow of fluid therethrough until the spring 2218and the moving magnet 2216 are biased sufficiently towards the outlet2204 that fluid can pass through the bypass outlet 2222. A Reed switch2224 mounted on an external portion of the apparatus is activated whenthe moving magnet 2216 comes into sufficiently close proximity to thesensor portion of the Reed switch 2224.

One embodiment of a fire protection system incorporating all apparatusof the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 23. The water from thewater supply 2300 first flows through a flow sensor 2301 a passingthrough an inlet softener line 2304 to a water softener 2302 or similarwater treatment or processing device and thence through the outletsoftener line 2306 back through the flow sensor 2301 a. The flow sensor2301 a typically directs water through the inlet softener line 2304through the water softener 2302 and then back through the sensor to afirst pipe section 2308. The flow sensors 2301 a and 2301 b could be ofthe type shown in FIG. 22. Alternatively, the device could be any of thetype of devices disclosed in the parent application. However, whetherthere is an excessive water demand in the system, for example such asone caused by the operation of a fire protection sprinkler, there is amechanism incorporated in the flow sensor 2301 a which allows water tobypass the water softener 2302 increasing the flow rate through thesystem. The water, which is passed through the water softener 2302, isnext split, some of it passing into the cold water piping 2310, and therest of it passing into a second pipe section 2312.

The water from the second pipe section 2312 next passes through a secondflow sensor 2301 b. A check valve 2348 may also be incorporated in thesecond pipe section 2312. The check valve 2348 prevents back flow ofwater, which potentially could be stagnant from the fire protectionsystem, to the cold water piping and/or the water softener. If a checkvalve is used, it could be any of the check valves shown in FIGS. 3through 21, whether in single or double check configuration. The type ofdevice shown in FIGS. 3, 13, and 14 could be used as both a check valveand the flow sensor, 2348, 2301 a, and 2301 b, respectively. This wouldrequire adding the device inlet and outlet ports as shown on the flowsensors 2301 a and 2301 b. The second flow sensor 2301 b passes waterdown through a water heater 2314 via an inlet heater line 2316, and backto the sensor via an outlet heater line 2318. Again, the second flowsensor 2301 b incorporates a bypass means which allows water to bypassthe water heater where there is an excessive demand. After being heated,the water passes into a multi-purpose pipe section 2320. Attached to themulti-purpose pipe section 2320 are typical domestic uses such as ashower head 2322 and a faucet 2334. Other uses, such as toilets,dishwashers, washing machines, and the like may also be attached to themulti-purpose pipe section 2320. Also in communication with themulti-purpose pipe section 2320 are one or more sprinkler heads 2328.Sprinkler heads are in communication via a passive pump 2324 and a headfitting 2326 with a multi-purpose pipe section 2320. The operation ofthe passive pump 2324 in cooperation with the head fitting 2326 and thesprinkler heads 2328 will be more fully described hereinafter. However,the purpose of the passive pump is to utilize the velocity head of waterflowing through the multi-purpose pipe section 2320 to circulate waterto and around the sprinkler heads 2328 to minimize stagnation.

Two flow sensors are incorporated into the multi-purpose piping system.If there is no water softener, there will not be a need for the flowsensor 2301 a. The only flow sensor 2301 b will be on the hot waterheater. Alternatively, it may be desirable to have only one flow sensorpresent at the water softener. In such a case, the flow sensor at thewater softener will also measure the cold water flow, potentiallycontributing to more false alarms in the multi-purpose alarm system.However, this may be desirable where the risk of false alarms is notsubstantial, and the cost savings is sufficient enough to justify asingle sensor at the water softener only. It is not believed that thehot water heater will cause a significant pressure drop in the flowtherethrough. Therefore, the bypass means at the hot water heater is notbelieved to be necessary to ensure that adequate flow is available forfire protection needs. Rather, as shown, the advantages that the flowsensor placed on the hot water heater only measures the flow through thehot water domestic uses, as well as the flow to the fire protectionsprinklers. Thus, the chance of a false alarm is minimized.

From the passive pump 2324, water is passed to a head fitting 2326. Thewater passes to the head fitting 2326 from the multi-purpose pipesection 2320 via the head supply line 2330. It is returned to themulti-purpose pipe section 2320 via the head return line 2332. Areverse-j fitting 2364 supplies water from the head fitting 2326 to thesprinkler head 2328. The purpose of the reverse-j fitting 2364 is tocool the water supplied to the sprinkler head 2328 to insure that thesprinkler head is not activated by the temperature of the water suppliedthereto. Most sprinkler heads are set to activate at a temperature of155° Fahrenheit. While it is not anticipated that hot water flowingthrough the multi-purpose piping system will exceed that temperature,the reverse-j fitting 2364 helps to insure that, just in case the waterdoes exceed that temperature, the fire sprinkler is not inadvertentlyactivated by the temperature of water passing thereto.

As shown, a thermocouple 2336 in communication with the pump controller2338 and control wiring 2340 operates to ensure that a minimum desiredtemperature is maintained in the common piping 2320. The thermocouple2336 measures the temperature of water in the common piping 2320. Thetemperature of surrounding air could also be measured either in place ofor in addition to measurement of the water temperature is measured itmay be desirable to leave the pump running continuously, placing extrawear and tear plus electrical costs on the system. If the temperature ofthe water drops below a preselected level (preferably at least 40°Fahrenheit), the pump controller 2338 initiates the action of a pump2344. The pump 2344 draws water from the common piping via a pump inletpipe 2342. A pump outlet pipe 2346 directs water through a check valveand a return pipe 2350 so that it is recycled through the water heater2314. The return pipe 2350 connects to the inlet heater line 2316 tocomplete the circuit. Thus, water moved by the pump 2344 through thewater heater 2314 is reheated to maintain a minimum temperature in themulti-purpose pipe section 2320.

An alternative feature is also shown in FIG. 23. The alternative featureis a return leg supply pipe 2352 and a return leg flow sensor 2354. Thereturn leg supply pipe 2352 may be in communication with the first pipesection 2308. The return leg flow sensor 2354 normally prevents anywater from flowing directly from the first pipe section 2308 through thereturn leg supply pipe 2352 into the multi-purpose pipe section 2320.However, when an excessive water demand is made on the multi-purposepipe section 2320, the pressure may drop low enough so that the returnleg flow sensor 2354 allows water to pass there through directly fromthe first pipe section 2308, supplementing the flow sensor 2301 b andthe other elements of the water heater system. Alternatively, the returnleg flow sensor 2354 may draw water from the multi-purpose pipe section2320 at a point adjacent to the outlet from the flow sensor 2301 b.

As used herein, the multi-purpose pipe section 2320 will often bereferred to as “common piping.” The “common piping” may include thesecond pipe section 2312, the inlet heater line 2316, the outlet heaterline 2318, the multi-purpose pipe section 2320, the pump inlet pipe2342, the pump outlet pipe 2346, as well as the flow sensor 2301 b.Further, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 23, the common piping includesall piping elements excluding the cold water system, and also excludingpiping related to the water softener system. As noted above, in somecircumstances it may be desirable to have the flow sensor with the firealarm enunciation means located at the water softener. Where the flowsensor with the fire alarm enunciation means is located at the watersoftener, the term “common piping” will include the cold water piping,as well as the piping related to the water softener.

The flow sensor 2301 b incorporates a trouble Reed switch 2356 and afire Reed switch 2358. An alarm annunciator is in electroniccommunication with the trouble alarm 2360 and a fire alarm 2362.Preferably, the fire alarm 2362 will also have a remote notificationfeature, which could advise the fire department, for example, that afire alarm condition exists in the structure. As shown, as adifferential in the linear placement of the fire Reed switch 2358compared to the trouble Reed switch 2356. The remote notificationfeature will incorporate the use of a modem or other electronic dialingmeans to notify the police and play, for example, a pre-recorded messagenotifying the police and/or fire department of the fire alarm conditionin the structure.

American Air Filter promoted a system called a “Tri-Water System” in theearly 1980's. The Tri-Water System was intended for installationprimarily in a commercial, and more particularly in a multi-storycommercial, structure. The Tri-Water System would have allowed for agreat deal of savings, combining the heating and air conditioningsystems with a fire sprinkler system, and reducing the amount of pipingrequired for a commercial structure. The promoters of the Tri-WaterSystem claimed that flow switches were available which would haveallowed for a water flow alarm, but this was untrue. Due to the factthat no water flow alarm was available for these systems, they fell fromfavor, and have not been installed very widely.

FIG. 24 illustrates an adaptation of the Tri-Water System to incorporatethe improvements of the apparatus disclosed in the present invention.The system is provided with a water supply 2400. The water supply willhave to be of the type typically provided for fire sprinkler systems.There is a main shut off valve 2402 which can be used to shut off thesupply of water to the system, but which is normally left open.Preferably, the main shut off valve 2402 will be connected to the alarmsystems so if it is inadvertently shut off, an alarm will soundindicating the flow of water to the fire protection system has ceased.Also provided at or near the supply point is a drain valve 2404. Thisallows the system to be drained of water in the event repairs are neededor the like. Water flows into an inlet line 2406, which passes itthrough a heat rejector 2408. The purpose of the heat rejector is toremove heat from the fluid circulating through the system. This is ineffect the chiller for the cooling system. Water next passes through theheater 2410 where it can be warmed if the system is operating in aheating mode. The flow of the water through the system is forced by apump 2412 disposed after the heater. After leaving the pump 2412, thewater flows through a supply line 2414. Preferably, a first flow sensor2416 is disposed in the supply line 2414. The first flow sensor 2416 isin electronic communication with a controller 2418, which controls analarm 2420. After passing through the first flow sensor 2416, the supplyline 2414 branches off into a number of supply branches. As shown, thereare four supply branches 2422 a through 2422 d. In a multi-storycommercial application, there will be at least one branch for each floorof the commercial structure. Also, there may be multiple branches perfloor. Disposed on the supply side of each branch 2422 a through 2422 dis at least one supply side sprinkler 2430. After flowing through supplybranches, water passes through heat exchangers 2434. The purpose of theheat exchangers is to distribute cooled or heated air, as needed,throughout the portion of the structure served by the heat exchangers2434. After passing through the heat exchangers 2434 fluid flows throughrespective return branches 2436 a through 2436 d. Disposed on eachreturn branch is at least one return side sprinkler 2432. The flows fromthe various return branches 2436 a–d are collected in the return line2438. Eventually they return to the inlet line 2406 and the circulationprocess repeats itself.

On both a supply test line 2446 is provided which allows fluid to bedrained from the supply side through a supply test valve 2448.Similarly, a return test line 2450 is in communication with the returnline and allows fluid to flow out through a return test valve 2452. Thepurpose of these valves is two-fold: first, to allow fluid to be drainedfrom the respective supply and return piping; and second, to allowsimulation of operation of at least one sprinkler on both the supply andreturn side.

A bypass leg 2442 is provided to allow a short circuit of fluid from thereturn leg, which is directly fed by the water supply 2400 to the supplyline 2414, bypassing the heat rejector 2408, heater 2410, and pump 2412.A check valve 2444 is disposed in the bypass leg 2442 to prevent backflow during regular heating/cooling operations of the device.

In cooperation the first flow sensor 2416, the controller 2418, and thesecond flow sensor 2440 allow for creation of a flow alarm to determinewhether one or more fire sprinklers have activated. Testing andcalibration of this system can be accomplished by utilizing the supplytest valve 2448 and the return test valve 2452.

Preferably, the pump 2412 and the heat exchangers 2434 will bede-activated if a fire sprinkler activation is detected.

A variation on the system shown in FIG. 23 is illustrated in FIG. 25.The system shown in FIG. 25 provides for integration with the controller2514 which incorporates, what is typically referred to as a home alarmsystem. Home alarm systems typically have three modes: first, a disarmedmode, where the sensors are not activated; second, an away mode, wherethe system assumes that no one is home and all of the sensors areactivated, including motion detector sensors which may be in the houseand which would be alarmed by anyone moving about the house; and third,an alarm at home mode where the external sensors, for example on doorsand windows, are activated, but the motion detector type sensors in thehouse are not activated so that the occupants can move about withoutactivating the alarm. The controller 2514 incorporates these types offeatures. If it does not incorporate these features, it is at least incommunication with a home alarm controller which does incorporate thefeatures. Water enters the system from a supply 2500. It first flowsthrough a main control valve 2502, which has an electronic indicator2504 in communication with the controller to identify whether the valveis open or closed. In general, since the system will be feeding the fireprotection system, it should always be open, and an alarm conditionshould be created if it is closed inadvertently. That is the purpose ofthe sensor 2504. After flowing through the main control valve 2502, aportion of the flow will flow through a flow sensor 2508 and anotherportion may pass outside to yard sprinklers 2506. The flow sensorpreferably incorporates three separate detectors. A first detector 2510is used to activate the water monitoring feature and to allow flowthrough the system when the water monitoring feature is not activated. Asecond detector 2512 acts as a “trouble” detector, and activates a valve2536 to shut off a yard sprinkler. A sprinkler shut off valve 2536disposed between the supply and the yard sprinklers 2534 incommunication with the controller 2514 facilitates the shut off upondetection of a trouble alarm. Also, a circuit may open to shut off lawnsprinklers. A third sensor 2514 activates a full fledged fire alarm, andpreferably will alert outside authorities via a dial up connection orthe like. Fluid flowing into the flow sensor typically passes outtherefrom through a device outlet 2516. As shown, a water softener 2524is fed by the device outlet 2516. Disposed in the device outlet 2516 isa normally closed valve 2520 which is controlled by the controller 2514.If a demand for flow is detected by the first flow sensor 2510, and thesystem is not in alarm away mode, the detection of flow demand signalsthe controller to open the valve 2520. It then passes through asubsequent supply line 2522 through the water softener 2524 back to theflow sensor through a device return line 2518. Thence, the fluid passesout of the flow sensor through the outlet line 2526. A water monitoralarm 2528 is controlled by the controller as is a full fledged firealarm 2532 and a trouble alarm 2530. When the alarm panel is set for“away mode,” valve 2520 is not activated and water flow greater thanthat needed for an ice maker is forced through a flow sensor 2508causing a first detector 2510 to operate a water monitor alarm 2528.

FIG. 26 shows a riser assembly incorporating the apparatus of thepresent invention. The riser assembly is intended for use in amulti-purpose piping system or in a stand alone fire protection systemin a structure. The riser is fed by a supply 2600. The supply firstpasses through a supply valve 2602 incorporating a valve tamper switch2604. The valve tamper switch 2604 is in communication with thecontroller 2620. The valve should normally be open, and if it is not anindicator is sent to the controller, which will sound a trouble alarm2622 indicating the valve 2602 is closed. The flow switch 2606 of thepresent invention is disposed after the supply valve 2602. As shown, theflow switch 2606, has both a pressure gauge 2608 and a flow gauge 2610.The Reed switches for determining flow 2612 are disposed in the outersurface of the flow switch 2606, and they are incorporated within ahousing so that they are protected. A drain test connection 2614 isdisposed near an outlet end 2618 of the flow switch 2606. The drain testconnection feeds a drain test valve 2616. The controller 2620 is incommunication with the trouble alarm 2622, a yard sprinkler cut off2624, and a fire alarm 2626.

FIG. 27 shows an alternative embodiment of a combined domestic supplyfire sprinkler system 2700 using a sensor to the present invention. Awater supply 2702 is provided. The water first passes through a sensorconstructed according to the present invention, of the type shown inFIG. 3, for example. The sensor includes a feed for a device supply line2706, which supplies a device such as a water softener 2710. After thewater passes through the device, it is returned through a device return2708. If there is no device, such as a water softener, there may simplybe a jump over line that passes directly from the supply to the return.After passing through the device, water encounters a “T” 2712, whichdivides it into a cold side 2714 and a hot side 2716. The hot water sidepasses through a check 2718, thence into a hot water inlet 2720 throughthe hot water tank 2724, and back out through a hot water outlet 2722.Hot water then passes through a supply line 2726, to supply at least onefire protection sprinkler 2736, and at least one domestic use via adomestic use manifold 2738. The supply line 2726 connects to a returnline 2728, which returns the water to the hot water heater through arecirculation pump 2732, to maintain a minimum desired temperature inthe piping. In communication with both the supply line 2726 and thereturn line 2728 are one or more crossover lines 2734, which aredisposed therebetween. The crossover lines 2734 typically are incommunication with one or more sprinklers 2736. Also in communicationwith the return line 2728 is a bypass 2730. The purpose of the bypass2730 is to allow flow to shortcut some of the supply line piping shoulda remote point in the return line require additional water supply, forexample, to supply a fire protection sprinkler 2736. As an example, thebypass could utilize the device shown in FIG. 13, without the need foran alarm circuit.

FIG. 28 shows a variation of a device similar to the device shown inFIG. 1. In FIG. 28, the orifice plate 2806 is preferably comprised of aconductive material, such as a ferrous material. When a minimal flowallows the spring 2814 to displace the orifice plate 2806 toward theentrance end through the inlet end 2826, the orifice plate 2820eventually contacts a first contact 2840 and a second contact 2842,which are in electronic communication with a controller or a read-outdevice. This type of contact set up could be utilized in FIG. 24 as asecond flow sensor 2440. The spring tension could be set such that ifone or more fire sprinklers are alarmed, the orifice plate 2806 willcontact the first and second contacts 2840 and 2842, respectively,creating the alarm indicating the fire protection condition hasoccurred. Also incorporated in the device shown in FIG. 28 are a firstand second pressure sensors 2850 and 2852, respectively. The pressuresensors are incorporated within the shoulder 2824, against which thespring rests. They are in electronic communication with the controlleror read out. As flow increased through the sensor, the pressure againstthe pressure sensors 2850 and 2852, respectively, increasesproportionate to the increase of flow rate. Thus, the reading from thepressure sensors is directly related to the flow rate through thedevice.

Several additional contacts are shown disposed along an interior portionof the annular housing 2802 . A contact 2844 is disposed closest to theinlet end, sensor 2848 is disposed closest to the outlet end 2828, andsensor 2846 is disposed therebetween. As the conductive plate isdisplaced by flow towards the outlet end 2828, it successively contactssensor 2844, then sensor 2846, followed by sensor 2848. The conductiveplate 2828 completes a circuit between sensors 2844 a and sensor 2844 b,and similar for sensor 2846 and sensor 2848. Thus, the position of theplate 2820 can be determined by which sensors it is in contact with. Asshown, the sensors are point contacts. However, they could also besectional contacts. That is, an entire linear portion of the interior ofthe annular housing 2802 could be lined with a contact with aninsulating break between that section and the next contact portionlining and interior part of the annular housing 2802. Thus, the orificeplate 2806 would be in constant contact with at least one of the sensorslining an interior portion of the annular housing.

There are many other schemes and sensor types which could be used toindicate the flow through the device using either the relative positionof the orifice plate or the pressure created by displacement of thespring. All these types of devices are intended to be incorporated withthe spirit and scope of the invention. The examples and configurationsdescribed above are intended by way of illustration, not by way oflimitation. The basic concept of the moving orifice plate can beincorporated in a myriad of configurations of flow sensors, and isuseful for not only fire protection, but also many other industries ashas been noted previously.

Operation

The operation of various apparatus and systems utilizing the apparatusdisclosed in the present invention will now be discussed. FIG. 1 is asimple flow sensor. Water enters through the inlet end 126. As the flowincreases, it tends to bias the moving orifice plate 106 towards theoutlet end 128 overcoming the resistance of the spring 114. As themoving orifice plate is displaced toward the outlet end, the magnet 112comes closer to the Reed switch 116. At some point, the Reed switchwould either open or close depending on whether its a normally open ornormally closed Reed switch. This creates a signal change which can besensed by the leads attached to the Reed switch. A user can read theupstream pressure on a pressure gauge 130, and can read the flow throughthe device as measured by the flow gauge 132. The flow gauge 132 iscalibrated for the moving orifice plate 106, so that the pressuretherein is proportional to the flow rate through the orifice plate.

The device in FIG. 2 is similar to the operation of the device isFIG. 1. However, as the moving orifice plate 210 is displacedbackwardly, it enters the expanding section 206. In the expandingsection, in addition to flow through the opening 212 fluid can flowaround a periphery of the moving orifice plate in the expanding section206, allowing additional flow capacity through the device.

In contrast to the devices shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the device in FIG. 3does not allow flow at any pressure differential between the inlet 306and the outlet 308. Rather, a minimum pressure drop, proportional to theorifice spring 338 must be developed before the moving orifice plate 330will be displaced sufficiently towards the outlet 308 so that theorifice plate clears the bullet rod 314, allowing fluid to flow throughan opening defined in the orifice plate 330. This differential pressurerequirement before flow can pass through the device shown in FIG. 3requires flow to typically pass through the device outlet 350, through adevice, such as a water softener, and back into the device through thedevice inlet port 352. This feature allows the device shown in FIG. 3 tofunction as a bypass mechanism. That is, typically, flow is directedthrough the device, but if a sufficiently large pressure drop isdeveloped, indicating that the flow capacity of the device is beingovercome, fluid can bypass through the moving orifice plate 330 once itis displaced past the bullet rod 314.

The other operational feature for the device shown in FIG. 3 in itsoperation is a double check. With a device inlet and outlet portsincluded with the device, there also have to be checks on those lines toensure the operation of the double check, otherwise the fluid couldsimply bypass the double check mechanism passing back through thedevice. When fluid tends to flow in an undesired direction, that is fromthe outlet 308 to the inlet 306, a moving check 318 is displaced both bythe action of the fluid and by the action of the check spring 324 towardthe inlet end. The check o-ring 320 seats against a corresponding checkshoulder seat 336, preventing fluid flow. The second check is providedby the moving orifice plate 330, and two o-rings, an outer o-ring 332and an inner o-ring 334, which seat against the bullet port 312,providing a second check. The seating is provided by both the force ofthe fluid in addition to the force of the orifice spring 338. Theoperation of the device shown in FIG. 13 is very similar to that of thedevice shown in FIG. 3. However, since there is no device outlet andinlet lines, there is no need for a check on those lines. Further, theorifice plate/magnet 1330 serves to function both the magnet and theorifice plate, and is coated with a rubber/polymeric material to serveas a seating material itself. That is, the rubber/polymer on the movingorifice plate/magnet 1330 seats against the outer sealing surface 1332and the inner sealing surface 1334 of the bullet port 1312.

Though the device shown in FIG. 14 is structurally different from thedevices shown in FIGS. 3 and 13, its operation is similar. When fluidenters the device through the inlet 1406, it encounters the firstinternal check 1412. No fluid can pass through the first internal check1412 until a sufficient pressure drop is developed to displace the firstinternal check 1412 backwardly, against the force of the first spring sothat the check o-ring 1426 is displaced past the first cylinder portion1420. Once the fluid is displaced past the first cylinder portion, fluidcan flow out or around the first check o-ring 1426. The operation of thesecond o-ring check is the same. There is no flow until the secondinternal check 1414 is displace sufficiently backward where fluid canflow out around the second check o-ring 1428. Magnets disposed on boththe first and second checks, 1430 and 1432 respectively, can activateReed switches 1440 and 1442 respectively, on an external surface of thesensor. The springs 1436 and 1438 can be set to different tensions.Thus, the first and second internal checks, 1412 and 1414, might bedisplaced different distances by the same pressure differential. Thus,the first internal check 1412 and its corresponding magnet 1430 couldfunction as a trouble alarm, while the second internal check 1414 andits corresponding magnet 1432 could serve as a fire alarm, not alarminguntil a much larger pressure differential is developed, indicating alarger flow.

The operation of the device shown in FIG. 22 is similar to the devicesdiscussed above, but it has some substantial variations. The mainfeature not described in the previous apparatus which is included inFIG. 22, is the vane 2210. The vane can be externally adjusted toincrease the pressure drop thereacross. As the vane is adjusted to closeoff the main flow path 2206, the pressure drop across the deviceincreases. This tends to bias the moving magnet 2216 towards the outletend 2204 overcoming the pressure of the spring 2218. Once the pressuredrop across the device becomes sufficient, the magnet 2216 is displacedback far enough so that fluid can flow through the bypass flow path 2208and out through the bypass outlet 2222, bypassing the external device,such as a water softener. The magnet can be used to activate an externalReed switch 2224 for purposes such as a trouble alarm, fire alarm, orthe like. In addition, should the device become blocked, the alternateflow path 2208 allows fluid to continue to flow therethrough, preventinga blockage.

In operation the system illustrated in FIG. 23 works as follows. Waterflows into the system from a water supply 2300 to a flow sensor 2301 a.Typically, a flow sensor 2301 a diverts water through an inlet softenerline 2304 to the water softener for treatment, however, when a demandexceeds the ability of water to flow through the water softener, abypass mechanism incorporated in the flow sensor 2301 a allows water toshort circuit, and not pass primarily through the water softener, butflow through to the first pipe section 2308. Similarly, the flow sensor2301 b receives water from the second pipe section 2312. Typically,water is diverted downward through the inlet heater line 2316 through awater heater for heating, back up through the outlet heater line 2318,and then on to the multi-purpose pipe section 2320. However, when thedemand for water exceeds the ability of water to flow through the waterheater, a bypass mechanism allows water to flow from a second pipesection 2312 through the flow sensor 2301 to the multi-purpose pipesection 2320.

The bypass mechanism of the flow sensor 2301 operates without the needfor any electronics or any external sensors. Rather, an orifice platehas an orifice, which is adapted to closely receive a bullet rod. Oncethe orifice has received the bullet rod, water cannot pass therethrough. A spring is adapted to bias the orifice plate towards a bulletport. Therefore, in a no-flow condition, the orifice plate is heldagainst the bullet port by the spring. However, as water begins to flowaround the bypass mechanism through a device, a pressure drop caused bya restriction is developed between the main inlet and the main outlet,which forces the orifice plate to compress the spring backwardly towardsthe main outlet. If the pressure difference becomes large enough, theorifice plate is displaced backwardly far enough so that the orificeplate clears the bullet rod and water can flow through the orifice.

A magnet is received against the orifice and seated on a magnet seat. Asshown in FIG. 4, the magnet is on the inlet side of the orifice, but itmay also be on the outlet side. The magnet moves in cooperation with theorifice plate. The magnetic field created thereby will operate a troubleReed switch 2356 when it becomes in a close enough proximity thereto,and subsequently a fire Reed switch 2358 as it continues to movebackwardly. By the time the magnet approaches the fire Reed switch 2358close enough to activate it, it has cleared the bullet rod, and water isflowing through the bypass means.

Normally, open Reed switches complete a circuit to send a signal as theyare activated. The trouble Reed switch 2356 preferably activates analarm, which only sounds in the structure where the system is located.This alerts the residents that the water usage is approaching the fireprotection level, and that if they want to avoid a fire alarm they needto reduce their water usage. The fire Reed switch 2358 preferablyactivates a system with remote notification. That is, when the fire Reedswitch 2358 is activated, a call is made to a fire department or othermonitoring authority, so that they can respond to the fire conditionwhich has apparently been created in the structure. The flow required toactivate the fire Reed switch 2358 should not occur except incircumstances where a fire sprinkler has activated in response to afire. The Parent Applications discuss the different flow regimes betweentypical domestic uses and flow regimes required for fire protection. Itis important to calibrate the location of the Reed switches, which canslide either toward the outlet or away from the outlet by loosening theReed switch clips. The calibration of this system is described in theParent Applications.

A passive pump 2324 only operates when water flows to the multi-purposepipe section 2320. Since this is a multi-purpose pipe section, waterwill flow through the multi-purpose pipe section 2320 on a regular basisto supply, for example, shower heads 2322 or faucets 2334. In addition,where a pump 2344 is provided to maintain re-circulation to maintain aminimum temperature, the pump 2344 will also provide flow through themulti-purpose pipe section 2320. When there is flow through themulti-purpose pipe section 2320 there will be velocity head associatedtherewith. The passive pump 2324 takes advantage of this velocity head.As water passes into the chamber, a differential pressure is created bythe configuration of the inlet and the outlet such that water is drawninto the inlet and pulled out of the outlet opening. A vacuum of sort iscreated by facing the outlet opening away from the inlet. Thus, thevelocity head is used to create a flow through the supply and returnlines, 2330 and 2332, respectively.

However, when a fire sprinkler head 2328 activates, the water demandwill be so great that water will be supplied to the head fitting throughboth the head supply and head return lines 2330 and 2332, respectively.That is, both lines operate as supply lines when a fire sprinkleroperates. It has the advantage of allowing small supply lines to be usedthan would be required if only one line were in place. In addition,there is a redundancy because even if a plug were to develop in one ofthe lines, the other line would probably not be plugged and would stillprovide water to the sprinkler head.

The operation of the return leg flow sensor 2354, in many respects, islike the flow sensor 2301. However, it does not have the inlet or outletports for devices such as water softeners nor need to have an alarmoutput. The only purpose of the return leg flow sensor 2354 is to allowflow there through when the differential pressure from the inlet to theoutlet increases to an extent indicating that additional water flowneeds to be allowed. Again, when the differential pressure rises to thatlevel, the orifice plate is displaced to pass the end of the bullet rodallowing flow through the orifice. Internally, the flow sensor 2301 isattached both to the first pipe section 2308 and to the tail end of themulti-purpose pipe section 2320. It is conceivable that where there aremultiple sprinkler heads attached to the multi-purpose pipe section2320, during a fire, there may less than sufficient water to feed thesprinkler heads toward the end of the multi-purpose pipe section 2320.Therefore, additional water would be allowed to pass through the returnleg flow sensor 2354 feeding these sprinklers at or near the end of themulti-purpose pipe section 2320. This additional water supply wouldassist these sprinklers in doing their job of suppressing a fire.

In operation the system of FIG. 24 is different from the system of FIG.23. This difference is largely due to the fact that, for example, for a10,000 square foot building, approximately one hundred gallons perminute of total flow is required to operate the heat pump circulatingsystem. This large flow exceeds the flow of a typical sprinkler head,and would not allow it to differentiate the flow as is possible with theresidential system. Therefore, the system of FIG. 24 compares the flowas measured through a first flow sensor 2416 to flow as measured througha second flow sensor 2440. If the differential between the measured flowindicates that a fire sprinkler is activated, the controller 2418activates a fire alarm 2420. This alarm may have two stages, a firststage trouble alarm, and a second stage fire alarm.

In operation as a heater/air conditioner, fluid is re-circulated by thepump 2412 through a supply line 2414 and through the various heatexchangers 2434 which distribute the heated or cooled air throughout thestructure. Once it has passed through the heat exchangers, it isreturned through the return line 2438, to either be heated or cooledagain by the heat rejector 2408 or the heater 2410, and is circulatedthrough the system again through the pump 2412. Fire sprinklers 2430 aredisposed on the lines that pass through the heat exchangers 2434. Thesefire sprinklers are supplied either by the supply line 2414 or by abypass leg 2442, with a check valve to ensure that in regular operationthe fluid does not backflow through the bypass leg from the supply line2414 to the return line 2438, circumventing the heat exchangers 2434.

To calibrate the system, the operation of the fire sprinkler system isoperated with either the supply side test valve 2448 or the return testvalve 2452. The supply test valve 2448 allows the simulation of theoperation of a fire sprinkler on the supply side, and the return testvalve 2452 allows the simulation of the operation of a fire sprinkler onthe return side.

The operation of the system illustrated in FIG. 25 illustrates the useof an electronic controller in cooperation with the flow sensor havingthree stages of detection. As fluid flows through the flow sensor, atsome point it reaches a flow great enough to activate a first detector2510. This first detector sends a signal to the controller, whichactivates the normally closed valve 2520 to open. This allows flowthrough the water softener into the system. An increased flow willactivate the second detector 2512, which communicates this situation tothe controller 2514 and activates a trouble alarm 2530. At this point,in a mode where the controller and/or the home security system are inthe alarm away mode, a demand for water will, instead of activating thevalve 2520 to open, send an water alarm 2528 indicating that there iseither a leak or an unauthorized demand for water. This may firstactivate a trouble-type alarm, and subsequently may notify outsideofficials, such as a fire department or a monitoring agency, should thewater monitor remain in place for a sufficient length of time.

The operation of the riser assembly incorporating the flow sensor of thepresent invention is relatively straight forward. The operation of theflow sensor 2606 is the same as previously described above. However, theriser assembly is provided either pre-assembled or in a package withsimple assembly instructions. It preferably includes substantially allof the piping and sensor components shown in FIG. 26 (excluding thecontroller). A tamper switch 2604 on a valve 2602 sends an alarm signalto the controller if the valve 2602, which should normally be open, isinadvertently closed. The flow sensors 2606 includes an outlet port orattachment of the drain test connection 2614 and test valve 2616incorporated thereon. Once connected, the test valve 2616 is normallyclosed and the valve 2602 is normally open to allow flow therethrough,which it is being measured in the flow sensor 2606.

The operation of the device shown in FIG. 27 is very much like theoperation of the device shown in FIG. 23. In practice, it is muchsimpler to install because the use of manifolds 2738 minimize the amountof piping that has to be run to specifically supply all the domesticuses, such as a shower head 2322 and faucets 2334, and the like.

While the invention has been shown, illustrated, described and disclosedin terms of specific embodiments or modifications, the scope of theinvention should not be deemed to be limited by the precise embodimentor modification therein shown, illustrated, described or disclosed. Suchother embodiments or modifications are intended to be reservedespecially as they fall within the scope of the claims herein appended.

1. An apparatus for use in a multi-purpose piping system that provideswater to both domestic uses and to fire sprinklers, the apparatuscomprising: a. piping having an inlet and an outlet; b. a detector,located between the inlet and outlet, that distinguishes between a firesprinkler water flow and a domestic use water flow; c. a drainconnection located between the inlet and the outlet.
 2. The apparatus ofclaim 1 wherein the detector also sends an alarm signal when water flowexceeds domestic use.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2 further including apressure gauge disposed between the inlet and the outlet.
 4. Theapparatus of claim 2, the detector in communication with atelephone-based remote notification system.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4,the detector further having a second detection mode for sending an alarmupon detection of any flow when the remote notification system is in anaway mode indicating that residents are not present.
 6. The apparatus ofclaim 1, the system including a water softener and a means for bypassingthe water softener to provide additional supply for a fire sprinklerwater flow.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, the detector preset to operateat a flow of at least 11 gallons per minute.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1further including a delay means for delaying the onset of an alarmcondition, whereby transient, short-term high flow does not result in afalse alarm.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8 where the delay means isadjustable regarding a time during which the transient flow can existwithout resulting in an alarm.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9 where thetime is adjustable from zero to two minutes.
 11. The apparatus of claim8, the maximum domestic flow having at least one of a K value greaterthan 3.3, a K value between 3.3 and 4.3, and a K value less than 4.3.12. The apparatus of claim 8, the alarm condition including providing asignal to at least one of a visible alarm, an audible alarm, a modem, acommunication system, a fire department, an emergency contact, and acutoff valve.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1, the detector having a delaydevice, whereby false alarms caused by pressure surges or short periodsof water usage above a pre-determined flow rate are prevented.
 14. Theapparatus of claim 13, the delay device having an adjustable setting fora time during which pressure surges or short periods of water usageabove a pre-determined flow rate can exist without triggering an alarm.15. An apparatus for use in a multi-purpose piping system that provideswater to both domestic uses and to fire sprinklers, the apparatuscomprising: a. piping having an inlet and an outlet; b. a means, locatedbetween the inlet and outlet, for distinguishing between a firesprinkler water flow and a domestic use water flow; c. a drainconnection located between the inlet and the outlet.
 16. The apparatusof claim 15 where the means is also for sending an alarm signal whenflow exceeds domestic use water flow.
 17. the apparatus of claim 16further including a pressure gauge disposed between the inlet and theoutlet.
 18. The apparatus of claim 16, the detector in communicationwith a telephone-based remote notification system.
 19. The apparatus ofclaim 15, the system including a water softener and a means forbypassing the water softener to provide additional supply for firesprinkler water flow.
 20. The apparatus of claim 15, the detector bayinga delay device, whereby false alarms caused by pressure surges or shortperiods of water usage above a pre-determined flow rate are prevented.21. The apparatus of claim 20, the delay device having an adjustablesetting for a time during which pressure surges or short periods ofwater usage above a pre-determined flow rate can exist withouttriggering an alarm.
 22. An apparatus for use in an open multi-purposeresidential fire sprinkler and domestic water system, the apparatuscomprising: a. a conduit having an inlet and an outlet; b. means fordistinguishing between a fire sprinkler flow and a domestic flow throughthe conduit in the open system and sending an alarm signal when flowexceeds domestic use water flow; c. a pressure gauge that measures thepressure in the conduit; and d. a drain connection in fluidcommunication with the conduit.
 23. The apparatus of claim 15 whereinthe means comprises a flow detector located between the inlet and theoutlet.
 24. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the drain is locatedbetween the flow detector and the outlet of the piping.
 25. Theapparatus of claim 16, the detector having a delay device: whereby falsealarms caused by pressure surges or short periods of water usage above apre-determined flow rate are prevented.
 26. The apparatus of claim 18,the delay device having an adjustable setting for a time during whichpressure surges or short periods of water usage above a pre-determinedflow rate can exist without triggering an alarm.
 27. A method ofdetecting a fire sprinkler flow in a multi-purpose residential firesprinkler and domestic use system, the system having common piping forthe fire sprinkler and domestic use, the method comprising: a. providingan apparatus having— i. piping having an inlet and an outlet; ii. a flowdetector, located between the inlet and outlet, that distinguishesbetween a fire sprinkler water flow and a domestic use water flow; andb. calibrating the apparatus to distinguish between fire sprinkler,water flow and a domestic use water flow.
 28. The method of claim 27 thedetector also sending an alarm signal when water flow exceeds domesticuse.
 29. The method of claim 28, the flow detector also in communicationwith a telephone-based remote notification system.
 30. The apparatus ofclaim 28, the detector in communication with a telephone-based remotenotification system.
 31. The method of claim 30, the detector furtherhaving a second detection mode for sending an alarm upon detection ofany flow when the remote notification system is in an away modeindicating that residents are not present.
 32. The apparatus of claim27, the system including a water softener and a means for bypassing thewater softener to provide additional supply for a fire sprinkler waterflow.
 33. The method of claim 27, the detector preset to operate at aminimum flow of 11 gallons per minute, and any sprinkler in the systemflowing a minimum of 11 gallons per minute.
 34. The method of claim 27,the detector further having a delay device, whereby false alarms causedby pressure surges or short periods of water usage above apre-determined flow rate are prevented.
 35. The method of claim 34, thedetector further having an adjustable setting for a time during whichpressure surges or short periods of water usage above a pre-determinedflow rate can exist without triggering an alarm, the adjustable timebeing set to a desired level given the flow characteristics of thesystem.
 36. An apparatus, comprising: a. a pipe of a multipurpose pipingsystem having an interior passage through the pipe directing a flowthrough the pipe; and b. a detector communicating with the interiorpassage of the pipe, the detector having a non-alarm condition when theflow is less than a maximum domestic flow and an alarm condition whenthe flow is greater than a maximum domestic flow.